These pork chops are smothered in a rich and creamy garlic sauce that adds a burst of flavor to every bite. They’re juicy, tender, and super easy to make!
I love to serve these with a side of mashed potatoes to soak up that yummy sauce. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds! You might even start a family tradition with this one! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Chops: I recommend bone-in pork chops for juiciness and flavor, but boneless ones work too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time!
Mushrooms: White button mushrooms are my go-to, but you can use any mushroom variety like cremini or shiitake for a deeper taste. Can’t find mushrooms? Try adding spinach or zucchini instead for a fun twist!
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream makes this sauce rich, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut cream works wonderfully, too!
Chicken Broth: Homemade broth is always best, but store-bought works just fine. Vegetable broth is a good substitute, especially if you want a lighter flavor.
How Do I Ensure My Pork Chops Remain Juicy and Tender?
The key to juicy pork chops is avoiding overcooking. Start by searing them at a medium-high heat to get that nice brown crust. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the pork chops.
- Cook them about 4-5 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Let the chops rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, so they stay tender!
Following these tips will help you serve up delicious, moist pork chops every time!
Pork Chops with Creamy Garlic Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Sauce:
Optional Sides:
- Asparagus or green vegetables for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, so plan for about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, but delicious enough for guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pork Chops:
Begin by seasoning both sides of the pork chops generously with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor as they sear!
2. Sear the Chops:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the pork chops. Sear them until golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes per side depending on their thickness. Once done, remove the pork chops from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Mushrooms:
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, toss in the sliced mushrooms. Sauté them for about 4 minutes until they begin to soften and brown.
4. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until you can smell its amazing aroma!
5. Create the Sauce Base:
Pour in the chicken broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let this mixture reduce slightly for about 2 minutes.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, which will take about 3-4 minutes.
7. Combine and Cook:
Return the seared pork chops to the skillet, spooning some of the sauce over them. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the pork is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
8. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste the creamy sauce. Adjust the seasoning with a bit more salt and black pepper if necessary.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color, and serve immediately. I recommend pairing these pork chops with steamed asparagus or your favorite green veggies!
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal that brings comforting flavors to your table!
Can I Use Boneless Pork Chops Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless pork chops can be used for this recipe. Just remember that they may cook faster, so be sure to check the internal temperature around the 3-4 minute mark per side.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy garlic pork chop dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. They all soak up the delicious sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pork chops in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to keep them moist.
